Method of enhancing rain and sun protection using a rain and sun shield for golf carts

ABSTRACT

A method for enhancing the rain and sun protection of a golf cart roof using a rain and sun shield device. The rain and sun shield for a covered golf cart is semi-permanently attached to the roof of a golf cart. The device is easy to install; will retrofit to any standard golf cart roof; does not interfere with the parking and storing profile (i.e. are sized to fit within the perimeter of any standard golf cart roof when in the closed position) of a fleet of golf carts. The device is easily opened and closed to provide the golf cart user with added sun and rain protection when in use.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.16/701,308 filed Dec. 3, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 16/197,145 filed Nov. 20, 2018, issued as U.S. Pat.No. 10,525,805 on Jan. 7, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 16/125,125 filed Sep. 7, 2018, issued as U.S. Pat.No. 10,160,298 on Dec. 25, 2018, which is a continuation-in-partapplication of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/879,943 filed Jan. 25, 2018,issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,093,161 on Oct. 9, 2018, the contents ofwhich are incorporated in their entirety herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Golf carts, even covered golf carts, do not provide adequate protectionto their occupants against sun and rain. Some after-market products havepanels that drop down to cover the sides of a cart and others form acanopy covering the entire cart. These devices are often cumbersome andinterfere with ingress to and egress from the golf cart. In addition,most of these devices are hard to install, interfere with the parkingprofile of the golf cart when it is stored and cannot be easily used instandard golf cart paths that wind through trees and large shrubbery.

In a related application, U.S. application Ser. No. 15/879,943 which isherein incorporated by reference, the invention is a light weight,portable and self-supporting rain and sun shield that can be fastened tothe roof of a golf cart that includes an awning or canopy wider than thegolf cart that will not interfere with the golfer's ingress to andegress from a golf cart but still offers protection from sun and rainoverhead as well as sideways sun and rain for golfers sitting in thecart. This previously disclosed embodiment is portable, easily attachedto and removed from a golf cart and conveniently fits in the umbrellapocket of a golf bag.

The previously disclosed device is a portable, lightweight sun and rainshield that is placed on top of a golf cart and is supported by a mainsupport rod that rests on the roof of the golf cart parallel to thelength of the golf cart. The main support rod is held in place usingstabilizing bars and straps that hold the device against the roof of thegolf cart. In one embodiment, the device has accordion-like extensionarms that are in multiple segments to easily expand away in aperpendicular direction away from the main support rod across the widthof the golf cart's roof. In one embodiment, the extension arm segmentsinclude an inner segment, an outer segment and a perimeter support rodsegment. The outer segments of the extension arms are connected to theperimeter support rod segment on each side of the golf cart for at leasttwo extension arms and are parallel to the main support rod. Theperimeter support rod forms the outside perimeter and frame support forthe device and cover. In one position the arms extend to the golf cartroofline on each side of the golf cart. In another embodiment, the armsextend beyond the width of the golf cart's roof as much as 120 inches. Anylon or fabric cover is attached to the main support rod, extensionarms and perimeter support rods so that when the arms are fully extendedthe device provides golfers in the cart a shield from sun and rain. Inone embodiment, the cover is attached to the main support rod, extensionarms and perimeter support rods by fasteners, rivets, sewn sleeves,Velcro, hooks, snaps, loop and fasteners, ties, and other such fastenersas known in the art.

The previously disclosed device is easily retractable. Theaccordion-like extension arms retract adjacent to the main support rodby pivoting the extension arms into a position parallel with the lengthof the main support rod. The cover folds or crumples inward with theextension arms. The straps and fasteners can be used to secure thedevice in its collapsed position, and the collapsed or unexpanded deviceis approximately the same diameter and length as a large golf umbrellaso that it fits in the umbrella slot, pouch, compartment, holder, orpocket of a standard golf bag. In one embodiment, the unexpanded devicehas a diameter of between 2 and 3.5 inches. In one embodiment, the coverextends at least 18 inches beyond each side of the golf cart. In anotherembodiment, the cover extends at least 24 inches beyond each side of thegolf cart. In one embodiment, the cover is angled from the main supportrod downward toward each side of the golf cart so that water will drainaway from the main support rod. Other embodiments can include a carryingbag equipped with a shoulder strap, golf bag mounting clip, Velcro strapor other suitable attachment for mounting on or connecting to a golf bagwhile not installed on the golf cart.

What is needed is a rain and sun shield for a covered golf cart that issemi-permanently attached (i.e. detachably attached) to the roof of agolf cart; that is easy to install; will retrofit to any standard golfcart roof; that does not interfere with the parking and storing profile(i.e. are sized to fit within the perimeter of any standard golf cartroof when in the closed position) of a fleet of golf carts and is easilyopened and closed to provide the golf cart user with added sun and rainprotection when in use.

SUMMARY

Herein described are embodiments of the rain and sun shield for acovered golf cart that are semi-permanently attached (i.e. detachablyattached) to the roof of the golf cart and corresponding methods forenhancing the rain and sun protection of a golf cart roof using a rainand sun shield device. Each rain and sun shield for a covered golf cartis semi-permanently attached to the roof of a golf cart. Each device iseasy to install; will retrofit to any standard golf cart roof; does notinterfere with the parking and storing profile of a fleet of golf carts.Each device is easily opened and closed to provide the golf cart userwith added sun and rain protection when in use. The target market withthese embodiments are users of golf carts as well as golf cartmanufacturers and any entity that uses fleets of golf carts whether forgolf courses, retirement communities or resort communities just to namea few. In summary, there are at least four primary embodiments of rainand sun shield devices for a covered golf carts that semi-permanentlyattached to the roof of a golf cart. These embodiments are easy toinstall; retrofit to any standard golf cart roof; and will not interferewith the parking and storing profile (i.e. are sized to fit within theperimeter of any standard golf cart roof when in the closed position) ofa fleet of golf carts. In the embodiments, the devices attach to thegolf cart roof such as by rivet or screws or other mechanical fastenersfor a semi-permanent attachment.

The four primary embodiments can be used with any golf cart roof. Thelength of a two person golf cart roof from front to back is 60 inchesand right to left 48 inches across. In one embodiment, two sets ofpanels each half the size of the golf cart roof are attached such as byhinges to a main support bar similar to the main support bar of theportable device. These two sets of panels lie stacked on each side ofthe golf cart support bar. The two sets of stacked panels are identicalpanel in size and shape. The bottom panel which is attached or hinged tothe outer edge of the bottom panel. In the closed position, the twopanels are stacked and locked down to the support bar. Once unlockedfrom the support bar the top panel flips open using a hinge mechanism toextend the top panel beyond the right and left sides of the golf cartroofline to provide the users of the golf cart added protection from thesun and rain.

In an alternate embodiment, rather than the stacked configuration usinga hinge mechanism, the top panel is now inside the bottom panel so itcan telescope out beyond the golf cart right and left side of the roofline. Alternatively, a single panel can be stowed in a housing cavityand simply slide out beyond the sides of the golf cart roof to providedadded sun and rain protection. This embodiment may have a stop mechanismor latch to prevent the fully extended device from falling off. Thisembodiment makes use of rails to slide open and close the sun and rainshield.

In another embodiment, there are two main support bars or hingessemi-permanently attached to the golf cart roof. Each of the two mainsupport bars or hinges is laid along the left and right perimeter of thegolf cart and a single shield panel is attached to each support bar orhinge. In the locked or closed position the shield panel fits withinhalf the frame of the golf cart roof. Once unlocked the panel flips 180degrees over the support bar or hinge and extends beyond the side edgesof the golf cart roof to provide sun and rain protection. Alternatively,multiple small hinges that attach semi-permanently to the golf cart roofcan be used.

In a fourth embodiment, two main support bars and hinges are, onceagain, laid along the top face of the roof of the golf cart toward theoutside perimeter of the right and left side of the golf cart roof. Thesun and rain shield is comprised of a flexible material covering aplurality of rigid ribs having an interior side and an exterior side.The interior side of each rib is attached to the main support rod and orhinge and the exterior side of the rib is attached to a perimetersupport rod using swivel pin joints that allow the ribs to rotaterelative to each other and the main support and perimeter support rods.A flexible, opaque fabric covers the rib array to provide users addedprotection from sun and rain. In the closed position the shield is likea collapsed wing that is spring loaded and nested within the roof lineof the golf cart. Once unlocked, the spring loaded shield opens into arectangular shape that swings forward or backward in the shape of aparallelogram when it comes in contact with pressure or resistance suchas from brushing against a tree. In other words, this embodiment iscollapsible as the ribs that connect the main support bar and the outersupport rod rotate on the swivel pins in both the forward and backwarddirections. Alternatively, the flexible shade panels can be attached onone edge to a long piano hinge or multiple small hinges attached on oneside directly to the roof of the golf cart and on the other side to oneof the main support bar such that the panels can be readily rotated 180degrees over the hinge to rest the panels on the top of the roof whennot in use.

In these embodiments, the device provides shelter to occupants of a golfcart from sun and rain when deployed on top of a golf cart. The devicecan shelter people standing or sitting next to a golf cart from sun andrain. In one embodiment, the device can be deployed on an ATV or othersmall transport vehicle instead of a golf cart. These and otheradvantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciatedby those skilled in the art by reference to the following writtenspecification, claims and appended drawings.

In an aspect, a method is disclosed, comprising: configuring a pair ofpanels sized to fit within the perimeter of a golf cart roof to bemovable and angle downward toward the golf cart roof sides; configuringthe movable panels to be adjustable between a retracted parallelogramposition comprising the panels disposed within the perimeter of theroof, and an open rectilinear position wherein the panels extend beyondthe roof; and configuring at least one panel to deflect from the openrectilinear position to the retracted parallelogram position when the atleast one panel is contacted by a force.

The movable panels may further comprise at least one panel movablerelative to the roof surface.

Each panel may have a top and bottom surface, and a proximal, perimeter,left side, right side, front, and rear edge.

The golf cart roof may be rectangular.

The golf cart roof may be not rectangular.

The golf cart roof surface may be flat.

The golf cart roof may have a left side edge.

The golf cart roof may have a right side edge.

The pair of panels may further comprise at least one rectangular panel.

The pair of panels may further comprise lightweight waterproof materialcomprising plastic, high impact polyethylene, fiberglass, or compositematerial.

Configuring at least one panel to deflect may further compriseconfiguring each panel of the pair of panels to deflect.

Configuring the movable panels to angle downward toward the golf cartroof sides may further comprise configuring the panels to be verticallydisplaced from the golf cart roof when the panels are attached to a golfcart.

The method may further comprise configuring each panel of the pair ofpanels with a drain groove.

The method may further comprise configuring the drain groove with adrain hole.

The method may further comprise configuring the drain groove with an endcap.

In an aspect, an apparatus is disclosed, comprising: a pair of panelssized to fit within the perimeter of a golf cart roof, wherein the pairof panels are configured to be movable and angle downward toward thegolf cart roof sides; wherein the movable panels are configured to beadjustable between a retracted parallelogram position comprising thepanels disposed within the perimeter of the roof, and an openrectilinear position comprising the panels extending beyond the roof;and at least one panel configured to deflect from the open rectilinearposition when the at least one panel is contacted by a force.

The movable panels may further comprise at least one panel movablerelative to the roof surface.

The movable panels may further comprise at least one panel movablerelative to another panel.

The apparatus may be detachably attachable with a golf cart roof.

The apparatus may further comprise the at least one panel configured todeflect in a direction depending on the force.

The apparatus may further comprise the at least one panel configured todeflect is configured to automatically return from the positiondeflected to when the force is removed.

The apparatus may further comprise a drain hole.

The apparatus may be attached to a vehicle of any type.

The apparatus may be attached to a roof of any type.

In an aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a pair of panelssized to fit within the perimeter of a golf cart roof, wherein the pairof panels are configured to be movable and vertically displaced from thegolf cart roof to angle downward toward the golf cart roof sides whenthe panels are attached to a golf cart; wherein the movable panels areconfigured to be adjustable between a refracted parallelogram positioncomprising the panels disposed within the perimeter of the roof, and anopen rectilinear position comprising the panels extending beyond theroof; and at least one panel configured to deflect from the openrectilinear position to the retracted parallelogram position when the atleast one panel is contacted by a force, and automatically return fromthe position deflected to when the force is removed; wherein theapparatus is configured to detachably attach with a golf cart roof.

The apparatus may be attached to the roof of a golf cart located at agolf course.

The apparatus may be attached to a golf cart.

The apparatus may be not attached to a golf cart.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unlessotherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposedto limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” shouldbe read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term“example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item indiscussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or“an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or thelike; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,”“standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construedas limiting the item described to a given time period or to an itemavailable as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompassconventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may beavailable or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, wherethis document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known toone of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass thoseapparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in thefuture. Furthermore, the use of plurals can also refer to the singular,including without limitation when a term refers to one or more of aparticular item; likewise, the use of a singular term can also includethe plural, unless the context dictates otherwise. The terms “deployed”,“extended”, “open” and “in use” are used interchangeably and intended tohave the same meaning as it related to the function and operation of thedevice. Similarly, the terms “undeployed” “unextended”, closed,“stowed”, “retracted” and “not in use”, are used interchangeably andintended to have the same meaning as it related to the function andoperation of the device. Finally, “panels” and “shield panels” are usedinterchangeably and intended to have the same meaning as it related tothe function and operation of the device.

The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “atleast,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instancesshall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or requiredin instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. Additionally,the various embodiments set forth herein are described in terms ofexemplary block diagrams, flow charts and other illustrations. As willbecome apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading thisdocument, the illustrated embodiments and their various alternatives canbe implemented without confinement to the illustrated examples. Forexample, block diagrams and their accompanying description should not beconstrued as mandating a particular architecture or configuration.

It is to be understood that the specific devices and processesillustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the followingspecification are exemplary embodiments of the inventive conceptsdefined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and otherphysical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed hereinare not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly stateotherwise. Further, the invention presented herein may be described interms of functional block components and processes, which may berealized in a variety of different forms to perform the specifiedfunctions and processes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the extended portable device attached toa golf cart according to selected embodiments of the current disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a rear plan view of the extended portable device according toselected embodiments of the current disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the partially retracted portable deviceaccording to selected embodiments of the current disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the partially extended portable deviceattached to a golf cart according to selected embodiments of the currentdisclosure.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the portable device's main support bar andfolded extension arms (without the cover) according to selectedembodiments of the current disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternate folding embodiment of adevice semi-permanently attached to a golf cart.

FIG. 7 is a front or rear side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6attached to a golf cart roof with one side of the embodiment shown inthe extended or open position and the other side in the retractedposition with in dashed lines showing the movement of that one side tothe extended position during use.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 6 showing one sideof the device in the extended position on one side and the other side inthe retracted position with dashed lines showing how that side wouldappear in the extended position when deployed or in use. The hinges ofthis embodiment are located closer to the edges of the cart's roof suchthat the shield panels are of different dimension than the roof panels.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternate slide rail embodiment ofthe device semi-permanently attached to a golf cart.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate folding embodiment of thedevice semi-permanently attached to a golf cart using two main supportbars.

FIG. 11 is a front or rear side view of the embodiment in FIG. 10attached to a golf cart roof with one side of the embodiment shown inthe extended position and dashed lines showing that side in theretracted position. The other side is shown in the retracted positionwith dashed lines showing the movement and position of that side whenextended for use.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternate retractable and flexibleembodiment of the device in the fully extended or deployed positionhaving collapsible ribs in which the panels are semi-permanentlyattached to a golf cart.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 showing one sidein the fully extended position and the other side in a horizontallyflexed and closed position with dashed lines showing that side'sdeployed position when not being horizontally flexed by an externalforce. This drawing also shows a dashed circle callout around one of theswivel hinges of one side that is showing in an exploded view in FIG.14.

FIG. 14 is a top detail view of the dashed circle callout of FIG. 13showing one of the swivel joints in solid lines at its open position andin dashed lines showing how the embodiment rotates when subjected to anexternal force and where a spring around the rotatable jointautomatically returns the embodiment to the normally extended positionwhen the external force is removed or is closed.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of FIG. 10, an alternate embodiment of afolding embodiment of the device semi-permanently attached to a golfcart using a 180-degree rotating hinge that is semi-permanently attachedon one side directly to the roof of the golf cart and to the shade panelon the other side with matching clasp elements for holding the panels inplace on top of the golf cart roof when the panels are not in use.

FIG. 16 is a top view of an alternate folding embodiment of FIG. 13,wherein the flexible shade panels are attached to the golf cart using a180-degree rotating hinge that is semi-permanently attached on one sidedirectly to the roof of the golf cart and attached to the lower surfaceof the shade panels such that it can be folded over to be stowed on topof the roof of the cart when not in use.

FIGS. 17A-17B together depict operational views of an exemplary shielddevice configured to deflect in response to external force when deployedin an exemplary extended mode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In one embodiment, of the disclosed device 1, as shown in FIG. 1, thefollowing components are employed: a removable cover 11 that providesthe device's sun and rain protection; a main support rod 12; and avalance 14 that hangs down along the edges of cover 11. When positionedon a golf cart, the cover has arms that extend outward and wider thanthe sides of a golf cart and front and rear ends that can reversiblyface in the direction of the front and rear end of the golf cart. Thecover 11 can be of any material, such as canvas, nylon, polyester,cotton, linen, tencel, hemp, or any synthetic or natural fiber. In oneembodiment, the cover material is treated to be waterproof. In anotherembodiment, the cover may be washable. In one embodiment, nylon orpolyester is used because of its durability and low weight. In oneembodiment, the cover 11 is a rectangle of approximately 84 to 96 incheswide from side to side and 44 inches long from front to back (withdirectional references based on the position of the cover when installedon a golf cart). The roof of a typical two seat golf cart isapproximately 48 inches wide and 60 inches long. In one embodiment, ofthe device, the cover 11 is wide enough to extend 18 to 24 inches outfrom each side of the golf cart roof. In another embodiment, the cover11 is up to 120 inches wider than each side of the golf cart's roof. Inone embodiment, the cover 11 is between 42 and 46 inches long, theapproximate length of a large golf umbrella. In another embodiment, thecover 11 is the approximate length of a golf cart's roof. The mainsupport rod 12 can be a rod or pipe and can be made of metal, plastic,fiberglass, composite or other suitable light weight and strongmaterial. The main support rod 12 can be held in place by straps,clamps, suction pads, suction cups or other suitable fasteners to holdthe main support rod 12 from sliding on the roof of the golf cart.

The main support rod 12 bifurcates the width of the cover. In oneembodiment, the main support rod 12 is located exactly halfway betweenthe extending sides or width of the cover 11. In one embodiment, theextending ends of the cover 11 have a 0 to 12 inch valence 14 that hangsfreely from the extending ends of the cover 11 to provide additional sunand rain protection to the golfers in the cart. In another embodiment,that portion of the cover 11 that extends out from the sides of the golfcart's roof also has a 0 to 12 inch valence that hangs down from thefront and rear ends of the cover 11. In another embodiment, there is a 0to 36 inch valence that hangs vertically from the outer perimeter of thecover. In one embodiment, the valence hangs vertically from the coveronly along the sides of the cart. In another embodiment, the valencehangs vertically from the cover along the sides of the cart andpartially along the front side of the cart. In another embodiment, thevalence is attached to the cover along the entire perimeter of thecover.

In one embodiment, of the disclosed device 1, as shown in FIG. 2, thefollowing additional components are employed: stabilizer arms 21supporting the main support rod 12; straps 22 attached to the stabilizerarms 21, the stabilizer arms 21 having one end attached to the mainsupport rod 12 and an opposite end with Velcro, metal or plastic snap,plastic side release, metal slide/D-ring release or other suitablefasteners 23 on the straps 22 that connect the straps 22 together. Inone embodiment, two stabilizer arms 21 are attached to main support rod12 by a mechanical fastener such as but not limited to a screw, pin,pivot, bracket, swivel bracket or other connector 13. In one embodiment,the fastener for the stabilizer arms allows the stabilizer arms torotate from a position parallel to the main support rod to a positionperpendicular to the main support rod. Each stabilizer arm 21 isattached at one end to the connector 13 in such a way that thestabilizer arms can rotate at least 90 degrees on the connector 13. Inanother embodiment, at least one stabilizer arm 21 is attached to themain support rod 12 at each connector 13, each stabilizer arm 21 beingattached at its center to the connector 13. In one embodiment, thedevice has four stabilizer arms; two on each side of the main supportrod connected to the main support rod which is the center point of thestabilizer arms. One end of each of the four stabilizer arms 21 areattached to the main support rod by rotatable mechanical fasteners. Inan embodiment with three connectors, six stabilizer arms can be used. Inone embodiment, the device has two stabilizer arms 21, and eachstabilizer arm 21 connects approximately halfway down its length toconnector 13. In such an embodiment, each arm rotates around theconnector 13. In another embodiment, the device uses a non-swivelbracket that allows the stabilizer arms to rotate without moving thebracket. In another embodiment, the device uses an attachment that isnot a bracket to connect the stabilizer arms to the main support rod.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, accordion-like extension arms 24 alsoattach to the main support rod 12 using fasteners similar those used toattach the stabilizer arms to the main support rod. In one embodiment,these are mechanical fasteners such as but not limited to hinge pinswith retaining rings, screws, pins, pivots, brackets, swivel bracketsgenerally referred to as connectors 15. In one embodiment, theaccordion-like extension arms 24 attach to the same connectors (notshown) on the main support rod 12 as the stabilizer arms 21. Eachextension arm 24 is made of a light weight but strong rod or pipe thatis generally of a smaller diameter than the main support rod 12. In oneembodiment, two extension arms 24 attach to each connector 15 and extendin opposite directions. In such an embodiment, the extension arms havean inner 24 a, an outer 24 b segment, and a perimeter support rodsegment 25 each segment having a proximal and distal end; wherein theproximal end of the inner segment is attached to the lower side of themain support rod and the distal end of the inner segment 24 a isconnected to the proximal end of the outer segment 24 b and the distalend of the outer segment 24 b is connected to the perimeter support rodsegment 25 for each of the at least two extension arms 24. The perimetersupport rod segment 25 can attach to the outer segment 24 b by aconnector 26, which can be the same type of connector as connector 13,15 or a different type of connector known to those of ordinary skill inthe art. In another embodiment, a single extension arm (not shown)attaches to each connector 15 at the arm's center. In one embodiment,the extension arms 24 are the same diameter and construction asfiberglass tent poles. In another embodiment, the extension arms 24 arefiberglass tent poles. In one embodiment, the extension arms 24 attachto the main support rod 12 by bushings or bearing hinge pins or rivets.The cover 11 is attached using fasteners to the extension arms 24 sothat the cover 11 becomes taut when the extension arms 24 are extended.

In one embodiment, the stabilizer arms 21 can, optionally, extend at anangle of between 10 and 25 degrees downward from the main support rod 12to hold the main support rod 12 above the roof of the golf cart. In suchan embodiment, this provides an angle to the cover so that, whenextended, the highest point of the cover 11 is along the main supportrod 12 causing water to drain out from the center of the cover to thesides of the golf cart.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the extension arms 24 areattached to the underside of the main support rod 12 while the cover isattached to the upper side (the opposite side) of the main support rod12. This configuration also creates a pitch or angle to the top of thecover 11 so that water will drain away from the main support rod 12.This configuration also allows the extension arms 24 to be on a singleplane so that they can fold and unfold easily. In another embodiment(not shown), the extension arms angle upward from the main support rod12 or from the edge of the golf cart roof to allow additional standingclearance underneath the ends of the cover 11 overhanging the sides ofthe golf cart. In such an embodiment, the device would channel watertoward the center of the cover 11 and off the back of the golf cart. Inanother embodiment, the device would channel water toward the perimetersupport rod segment 25 which is configured to collect and direct wateroff either the back or front of the golf cart depending on theorientation of the device on the golf cart roof. In another embodiment,the perimeter support rod segment is configured as groove, half circleor gutter to channel water from the sides of the cart to the back orfront of the cover.

As further shown in FIG. 2, each of the stabilizer arms has at least onestrap 22 attached to it. The straps are of sufficient length to wraparound the sides of the golf cart roof and fasten together on theunderside of the golf cart roof. In one embodiment, the straps areadjustable in length. In one embodiment, each strap 22 has a fastener onat least one end. In at least one embodiment, each strap 22 has a hookand loop closure on its loose end. Any type of fastener or attachmentclosure, such as Velcro, clips, or clip buckles, can be used on thestraps 22 so long as the attachment closure can fasten the loose ends ofthe straps 22 together. In one embodiment, the stabilizer arms 13 can beheld in place by straps, clamps, suction pads, suction cups or othersuitable fasteners to keep the main support rod 12 from sliding awayfrom the middle of the roof of the golf cart. In one embodiment, asingle adjustable strap is attached to a single stabilizer arm on oneend, wrapped around the golf cart roof and attached to the opposite ofthe single stabilizer arm (embodiment not shown).

As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, the extension arms 24 can beextended partway so the cover does not hang over the sides of the cartor, in another embodiment, overhangs less than at full extension.

As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the cover 11 is held in placeacross the golf cart's roof by a main support rod 12 that isapproximately the same length as the cover 11. In one embodiment, themain support rod 12 is longer than the cover 11. The main support rod 12has at least two attachment points for stabilizer connectors 13. In oneembodiment, the stabilizer connectors 13 are positioned toward the endsof the main support rod 12. One stabilizer connector 13 can bepositioned toward the forward end of the main support rod 12 and asecond stabilizer connector 13 is positioned between 6 inches and 24inches from the rear end of the main support rod 12. In anotherembodiment, the stabilizer connectors 13 are positioned at an equaldistance close to the ends of the main support rod 12 so the device hasa universal front and rear orientation. The device can have stabilizerconnectors 13 on the main support rod 12, which can rotate at theconnectors 13 on main support rod 12 so that they are parallel to themain support rod 12 requiring less space for storage when the device 1is removed from a golf cart.

In one embodiment, when the device is fully retracted it approximatesthe size of a large golf umbrella, having dimensions of approximatelybetween 2 and 3.5 inches in diameter by approximately between 42 and 46inches in length. In one embodiment, the device is designed to fit intothe umbrella tube, slot, compartment or holder of a golf bag having adiameter of between 2 and 4 inches. In another embodiment, the device isbetween 0 and 144 inches in length to accommodate golf carts with acarrying capacity larger than two passengers.

The device is easy to deploy and use. The retracted device is placed ontop of the roof of a golf cart. The stabilizer arms 21 are rotated to beperpendicular to the main support rod 12 and oriented underneath themain support rod 12. The main support rod 12 is placed on top of thegolf cart's roof with the stabilizer arms 21 touching the roof. The mainsupport rod 12 has a front end and a rear end. The front end of the mainsupport rod 12 faces the general direction of the front of the golf cartand the rear end faces the general direction of the rear of the golfcart. The device can be positioned halfway between the sides of the roofof the golf cart (centered) and, in one embodiment, is supported by thestabilizer arms 21 so that the cover 11 only contacts the outside edgeof the roof of the golf cart. When the device is positioned on the golfcart roof and is stabilized by the stabilizer arms 21, then the straps22 are dropped over the sides of the golf cart's roof and passedunderneath the golf cart's roof. The straps 22 connect to each otherunder the golf cart's roof by the fasteners 23 on the free ends of thestraps 22.

In one embodiment, the free end of one strap 22 has both hook and loopVelcro portions on it and the end of the Velcro strap 22 passes througha looped end of the non-Velcro strap 22 on the opposite side of theroof. The Velcro strap 22 then folds on itself, fastened by the Velcroso that the two straps remain firmly attached to one another under theroof of the golf cart. In another embodiment, any suitable fastener canbe used to attach the free ends of the straps 22 under the golf cartroof. For example, suitable fasteners can be buckles, side releasebuckles, magnetic release buckles, cams, cam buckles, strap adjusters,center release buckles, breakaway buckles, ratchets, ratchet joints,snaps, rivets, and clasps. In another embodiment (not shown), a straphaving a looped end or other suitable fastener wraps under the golf cartroof and attaches to a hook or other corresponding fastener to hold thedevice securely to the golf cart roof.

Once the device is positioned and fastened to the golf cart roof, thenthe extension arms 24 can be lengthened until the cover is at thedesired length or taut. In one embodiment, the extension arms 24 includea spring engaged locking mechanism to keep them in the extendedposition. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism has a push buttonratchet joint that provides various locking positions so that the covercan be retracted and extended to various widths between fully retractedand fully extended, depending on user preference.

The device can be easily removed from a golf cart. In an embodiment withVelcro strap fasteners, extension arms 24 are fully retracted and thestabilizer arm 21 straps 22 are unfastened. Then the stabilizer arms 21are rotated parallel with the main support rod 12 for storage. Once thecover 11 is completely retracted or crumpled to its fully retractedposition (it will crumple for storage as the extension arms 24 retract),the straps can be wrapped around the retracted device to hold the cover11, folded stabilizer arms 21, and folded extension arms 24 tightlyagainst the main support rod 12. When fully retracted, the device canfit into a standard umbrella pocket on a golf bag for storage.

In one embodiment, the stabilizer arms 21 can be omitted to reduce thesize and weight of the device. In another embodiment, the extension arms24 and the stabilizer arms 21 can be of a unitary construction to reducethe number of moving parts on the device.

In another embodiment, the device can be semi-permanently fixed to theroof of a golf cart using mechanical fasteners such as but not limitedto screws and bolts. In the semi-permanent embodiments, for example, theaccordion like extensions of the portable device which is covered inlight weight material can be used but alternatively replaced withhardtop extensions or flexible panels such as but not limited to a clamshell or flip top designs that when stowed fit within the frame of agolf cart roof but when open provide extended rain and sun protection tothe golf cart users. Such embodiments would no longer fit in theumbrella pocket of a golf bag but are still considered portable as theycan be attached or retrofit to any golf cart roof. They could remain onthe golf cart roof or otherwise stored in close proximity to the golfcarts themselves to attach as needed.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the embodiment is comprised of twoidentical sets of panels 30A and 30B that are stacked when stored or notin use. To use or deploy the device the panels can be unfolded toprovide the sun and rain shade for each side of the golf cart. Thepanels 30A and 30B can be made of lightweight waterproof material suchas but not limited to plastic, high impact polyethylene, fiberglass,composite material or other suitable light weight, waterproof and strongmaterial. One edge of panel 30B is affixed to the main support rod 12,which is securely attached to and extends along the center and top ofthe golf cart's roof from front to back of the golf cart roof. The otheredge of panel 30B is attached to panel 30A using a flexible hinge 31. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 6, the two identical sets of panels 30A and 30Bare connected to each other using, for example, a single flexible hingethat extends substantially along the joint between the panels. In analternate embodiment, a plurality of smaller hinges is spaced-apartalong the joining edges of the two panels. In the retracted position,panel 30A is folded back or stacked on top of panel 30B and remainssecured to the main support bar such as by a central clasp 32. In theembodiment of FIG. 6, a single central clasp 32 is shown. In anotherembodiment, a clasp (not shown) is located on the front or rear edges ofthe main support bar or on the front edge of the golf cart roof for easeof accessing the clasps from the front and rear of the cart whendeploying the panels in the extended position. The clasps can be anytype of spring-loaded or non-spring-loaded mechanical or magnetic claspsknown to those of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, a singlecentral clasp can have multiple mating clasps attached to multiplepanels to secure the panels in the closed position. A draw-line 33 isshown attached to a mating clasp for a single central clasp 32 which isattached to the outer edges of panels 30A to assist the user indeploying the panels to the extended position. In one embodiment, aplurality of flexible grommets 34 are spaced-apart near the hinges andattached to the side of panels 30A and 30B that come in contact with theroof of the golf cart to prevent the panels from directly contacting thetopside of the golf cart roof either when the panels are retracted orextended to prevent scratching. The flexible grommets also providestability, shock absorption, noise reduction and to cushion the panelsas the golf cart moves across the terrain whether in the extended orretracted position. In one embodiment, the grommets 34 are symmetricallyspaced apart. In another embodiment, the grommets 34 are asymmetricallyspaced apart. In another embodiment, the grommets 34 are waterproof,weatherproof and made of material such as but not limited to rubber orplastic.

In reference to FIG. 7, one side of the embodiment of FIG. 6 is shown inthe retracted position and secured to the main support rod 12 at theclasp 32. In dashed lines, the panel 30A is shown in the extended andpartly extended position to show how the panel folds along the hinge 31when being deployed or retracted. The embodiment of FIG. 6 shows thepanels 30A and 30B are of the same width and length dimensions so thatin the retracted position; the panels substantially overlap and arecontained within the perimeter of the golf cart roof. The widthdimension of the panels is selected such that in the extended position,the panel 30A extends over the edge of the roof to the desired levelwhen in use. In one embodiment, the panels extend, when deployed, beyondthe width of the golf cart roof up to 24 inches. In one embodiment, thepanels extend beyond the width of the golf cart roof up to 120 inches.

In reference to FIG. 8, an alternate embodiment is shown where the hinge31 is located closer to the left and right edges of the golf cart'sroof. The width of panel 30A would only need to be sized to provide theextent of shading desired. In this embodiment, the width of panel 30B islarger than panel 30A since the additional width is necessary to reachthe main support rod 12 that is attached to the center of the golfcart's roof. The securing clasps 32 are located closer to the center ofpanel 30B to match up with the mating clasps on the outer edges of panel30A.

In reference to FIG. 9, a telescoping or sliding embodiment of thecurrent invention is shown. In this embodiment, panels 40 movehorizontally relative to the plane of the golf cart's roof withinhousing cavities 41. Panels 40 have a proximal edge, and a perimeteredge. The panels 40 can be made of lightweight waterproof material suchas but not limited to plastic, high impact polyethylene, fiberglass,composite material or other suitable light weight, waterproof and strongmaterial. The housing cavities 41 may be secured centrally to the mainsupport rod 12 or directly to the top surface of the golf cart roof. Inthe embodiment of FIG. 9, the top surface of the golf cart's roof formsthe bottom of the housing cavities 41 so that essentially the housingcavity is an open frame to house the shield panels. In one embodiment,the housing cavities 41 are secured to lateral rails 44 that guide thepanels 40 as they are extended and retracted; and the lateral rails 44are located at the front and rear of the golf cart roof and secured tothe main support rod 12 or alternatively semi-permanently attacheddirectly to the top surface of the golf cart roof

Alternatively, the lateral rails 44 are the front and rear side of thehousing cavities 41 and are themselves semi-permanently attached to theroof of the golf cart. In another embodiment, the housing cavities aresemi-permanently attached closer to the edges of the golf cart's roof toshorten the width of the panels 40 required to reach the desired levelof rain and sun protection when extended.

A stop block alternatively called a retaining arm 42 is secured topanels 40 to prevent the panels from falling out of the housingcavities. In one embodiment, an arm guide 43 is notched out of the sideedges of the housing cavity and the retaining arm 42 slides back andforth within the arm guide 43 to prevent the panels 40 from sliding outof the housing cavities when the panels are placed in the extendedposition. In one embodiment, a hand grip section 45 of the panels' 41outer edges is made to provide a gripping point to extend and retractthe panels from the housing cavities. However, any type of known handledesign could be used to facilitate movement of the panels within thehousing cavities. In other embodiments, known rail guides, such as thoseused for guiding cabinetry drawers could also be used to control themovement of the panels into and out of the housing cavities. In anotherembodiment the housing cavity comprises only the rails 44 themselves tohold the panels 40.

An alternate embodiment of FIG. 9 (not shown) provides for rain and sunshield device having a pair of housing cavities, each cavity having arectangular shaped frame with an open top and bottom, a back, an opendistal end and a set of lateral slide rails. The lateral side rails formthe right and left sides of the cavities. In this embodiment, cavitiesare nested back to back within the limits of the golf cart roof. Thecavities are semi-permanently attached to the upper surface of the golfcart roof and a pair of rectangular panels is inserted into each of thehousing cavities. The panels can be manually deployed by a user so thatthe panels lie partly on the golf cart roof and extend beyond the rightand left sides of the golf cart roof. In this embodiment, the devicealso has at least one pair of detachable retaining lines with two ends,whereby one end is permanently attached to the front edge of each paneland the other end is optionally, temporarily or as needed attached to ananchor point located on the front of a golf cart frame located below thecart roof to anchor the panels in the deployed position. In thisembodiment the panels can be deployed up to about 24 inches past theright and left sides of the golf cart roof. In this embodiment, thedevice also has a retaining arm secured to each panel and located withinan arm guide notched out of the inside and outside surfaces of the sliderails of each housing cavity and a central grip notch located near theperimeter edge of each panel. In this embodiment, the device also has aplurality of flexible grommets attached to the bottom surface of each ofthe panels, a wiper blade attached to the bottom proximal surface ofeach panel to keep rain from getting under the shield and draining atthe sides of the golf cart roof; and a second anchor point located onthe top front edge of the golf cart roof or slide rail with a matingclasp attached to the front edge of each panel.

In reference to FIG. 10, an alternate folding embodiment for the deviceis shown comprising two main support bars 50 are secured near to theleft and right perimeter of the golf cart's roof. Each of the two shieldpanels 51 are attached on the inside edge to hinges 52. The other sidesof the hinges 52 are secured to each of the two main support bars 50. Inthe embodiment, of FIG. 10, the hinges 52 are 180-degree piano hingesare shown that extend substantially along the inside edge of the panels51. However, in other embodiments, a plurality of evenly-spaced apartsmaller hinges is used. In the retracted position, the shield panels 51fold about 180-degrees over the hinges 52 toward the central part of thetop surface of the golf cart's roof. The panels 51 can be made oflightweight waterproof material such as but not limited to plastic, highimpact polyethylene, fiberglass, composite material or other suitablelight weight, waterproof and strong material. In one embodiment, aretaining line 53 is attached permanently on one end to the front edgeof each shield panel 51. The other end of the retaining line 53 isoptionally, temporarily or as needed is secured to the front of eachforward cart frame at some distance below the cart's roof section at ananchor point 66 (shown in FIG. 13) to stabilize the panel when the golfcart is in use. In other embodiments, one side of the 180-degree hingesare semi-permanently attached directly to the top side of the golfcart's roof and do not require the two main support bars 50 extendingalong the side edges of the golf cart's roof. In one embodiment,grommets 34 (shown in FIG. 11) are placed along the full length of thepanel front to back to prevent the panels 51 from having direct contactwith the golf cart roof.

In the reference to FIG. 11, a cross-sectional view of the embodiment ofFIG. 10 is shown with the left side shield panel 51 in the extendedposition in solid line and having a dashed line showing the panel 51 inthe retracted position. The right-side shield panel 51 is shown in solidline in the retracted position and having a dashed line showing thepanel 51 in the extended position. Curved arrow lines show the movementof the shield panels 51 from the retracted to the extended position asthey are rotated about their securing hinges 52. In one embodiment, oneend of the retaining line 53 is permanently attached to the front edgesof the shield panels when in the extended position. The second end ofthe retaining line 53 can be attached to one of several anchor points 66such as the one shown in FIG. 13 on the golf cart frame to stabilize thepanel when the golf cart is in use or moving. A second retaining line 54attached to each panel can used to secure the shield panels 51 togetherwhen they are in the retracted position.

In reference to FIG. 12, an alternate embodiment of the device is showncomprising two main support bars 70 semi-permanently attached to thegolf cart roof near the left and right side edges of the golf cart'sroof and two shield panels 60 comprising a flexible material covering aplurality of rigid ribs 61; said plurality of rigid ribs 61 having aninterior or proximal side 61A and an exterior or distal side 61B. Theinterior side 61A of each of the plurality of rigid ribs 61 is attachedto the main support bar 70. The exterior side 61B of each of theplurality of rigid ribs 61 extends away from the sides of the golf cartwhen the shield panel 60 is in the extended position; and the exteriorside 61B of each of the plurality of rigid ribs 61 is attached to aperimeter support rod 62. Each of the rigid rib elements are connectedto the main support bars 70 and the perimeter support rod 62 usingswivel pin joints that allow them to rotate relative to each other. Aflexible and opaque fabric overlay material is secured over the ribarray to provide the rain and sun shield. In another embodiment theflexible and opaque fabric overlay material is secured over the rigidribs 61 the perimeter support rod 62 and the main support bar 70.

In reference to FIG. 13, the right-side shield panel 60 is shown in theretracted position in solid line and the extended position in dashedline. In the retracted position, the perimeter support rod 62 is pulledtoward the back of the golf cart such that the shield panel 60 iscollapsed within the roof line of the golf cart. Alternatively, thisembodiment can be retracted when the perimeter support rod 62 is pulledtoward the front of the golf cart by exactly the same mechanism. Asemi-detachable strap 64 having two ends is permanently attached on oneend to the rear edge of each panel 60 and on the other “free” end can betemporarily attached to an anchor point 66 on the rear of the golf cartframe to hold the panel 60 in the retracted position when the device isnot being used. In another embodiment the removable strap 64 having twoends is permanently attached on one end to the front edge of each panel60 and on the other free end temporarily attached to an anchor point 66on the front of the golf cart frame to hold the panel 60 in theretracted position when the device is not being used. The anchor point66 can be a fastener such as but not limited to a loop, hook, snap,Velcro, buckles, side release buckles, magnetic release buckles, cams,cam buckles, strap adjusters, center release buckles, breakaway buckles,ratchets, ratchet joints, snaps, rivets, and clasps that allows thestrap to attach to the anchor point.

In one embodiment, the free end of one strap 64 has both hook and loopVelcro portions on it and the end of the Velcro strap 64 passes througha looped end of the non-Velcro strap 64 on the opposite panel. TheVelcro strap 64 then folds on itself, fastened by the Velcro so that thetwo straps can also remain firmly attached to one another on top of theroof of the golf cart when the device is not in use. In anotherembodiment, any suitable fastener can be used to attach the free ends ofthe straps 64 on top of the golf cart roof. Once again, suitablefasteners can be buckles, side release buckles, magnetic releasebuckles, cams, cam buckles, strap adjusters, center release buckles,breakaway buckles, ratchets, ratchet joints, snaps, rivets, and clasps.In another embodiment (not shown), a strap having a looped end or othersuitable fastener wraps under the golf cart roof and attaches to a hookor other corresponding fastener to hold the device securely to the golfcart roof.

A rotatable compression spring 65 is attached to the front or backswivel pin joint of the proximal also called interior side 61A of theplurality of rigid ribs 61. When the device is retracted, and one end ofthe strap is anchored to the front or rear of the cart, the spring 65 iscompressed by the rotation of the swivel joint to which it is attached.When the strap is detached from the anchor, the compression springreleases the stored force and stretches rib array and flexible overlaymaterial out into the extended position. In the embodiment of FIG. 13, asingle rotatable compression spring is shown attached to the frontswivel pin joint of the internal rib. However, in other embodiments, aplurality of compression springs can be placed on other swivel pinjoints in the rib array to provide additional forces to automaticallyextend the shield into position for use. Another benefit of thecompression springs placed on the swivel pin joints is realized when theextended shield contacts external forces during motion of the golf cart.For example, if the shield contacts a low-hanging tree branch or theside of a tunnel, the shield will deflect toward the front or rear ofthe cart depending on the direction of the pressure and thenautomatically return to the extended position when the cart clears theobstruction. In other words, the compression springs 65 are at rest whenthe panels 60 are fully deployed and the rigid ribs 61 are in aconfiguration perpendicular to the main support bar 70 and the perimetersupport rods.

In reference to FIG. 14, an exploded view of one of the swivel pinjoints of FIG. 13 is shown. In the extended position, the plurality ofrigid ribs 61 is perpendicular to the main support bar 70 and theperimeter support rod 62. An external obstruction 68, which representsan immovable object that contacts the shield during motion of the cartsuch as but limited to brushing up against a tree or the side of abuilding or even a person, causes each of the plurality of ribs 61 torotate about the swivel pin joint. One end of the compression spring 65is anchored to the main support rod 70. The other end of the compressionspring is attached to the swivel pin joint on at least one of theplurality of rigid ribs. As the rib rotates, a compressive force isstored in the spring. The deflected cross rib is shown in dashed line asit is rotated about the swivel pin joint. Once the cart passes theobstruction 68, the torsional force stored in the compression springreturns the cross rib to the perpendicular orientation.

In reference to FIG. 15, a perspective view of a folding embodiment ofFIG. 10 is shown wherein 180-degree hinges 52 having two sides are onone side directly and semi-permanently attached to the roof of the golfcart and on the other side are attached to the proximal side of eachpanel 51. In this embodiment, one or more matching clasp elements 55 areshown placed near the front and/or rear edges of each shield panel thatfold into receiving clasps secured toward the front and/or rear of thecart roof such that the panels are held in place on top of the golf cartroof when not in use. The clasp elements may be mechanical, magnetic orother such styles known in the art. The number and locations of thesecuring clasps required to provide the desired level of panel securitywhen stowed will depend on factors such as the weight and dimensions ofthe shield panels and the profile of the golf cart's roof.

In reference to FIG. 16, a top view of the flexible embodiment of FIG.13 is shown with an alternate means of stowage and deployment of theshield panels. The left shield panel is shown deployed in solid linewhile the right shield panel is shown stowed in solid line. The dashedlines for each panel show their opposite position. A long piano hinge ora plurality of smaller 180-degree rotating hinges is semi-permanentlyattached on one side to the roof of the golf cart. The other side of thehinge is attached to the lower surface of each support bar 70. In theretracted position, the shield panel folds about 180-degrees over thehinges 72 toward the central part of the top surface of the golf cart'sroof. A semi-detachable retaining line 64 is permanently attached on oneend to the rear edge of each shield panel. The other “free” end of theretaining line 64 is attached to an anchor pin secured to the rearframes of the cart at some distance below the cart's roof section whenthe panels are in use. The semi-detachable retaining line 64 could alsobe located toward the front edge of the shield panels and attached to asecond anchor pin secured to the front frame section of the golf cart.Alternatively, the shield panels could be secured to both the front andrear frames simultaneously using multiple semi-detachable retaininglines 64 and anchor pins or clasps as previously described. In oneembodiment, each panel has an anchor point so that the lengths of theretaining lines 64 are such that when in the stowed position, each freeend is affixed to a corresponding anchor point on the other panel,securing the panels together. Alternatively the semi-detachable lines 64can attach together at their free end when in the stowed or closedposition. In one embodiment, grommets 34 (as shown in FIG. 11) areplaced on the panels where they come in contact with the golf cart roofto prevent the panels from having direct contact with the golf cartroof. This will prevent damaging the golf cart roof.

FIGS. 17A-17B together depict operational views of an exemplary shielddevice configured to deflect in response to external force when deployedin an exemplary extended mode.

In FIGS. 17A-17B, the golf cart roof is configured with two shieldpanels 60. The shield panels 60 in FIGS. 17A-17B are depicted in anexemplary deployed position illustrated by solid lines. The shieldpanels 60 depicted by FIGS. 17A-17B are illustrated by dashed lines inexemplary refracted, retracting, deploying, and deflecting positions.FIG. 17A illustrates an exemplary golf cart roof front or rear view.FIG. 17B illustrates an exemplary golf cart roof top view.

Each shield panel 60 depicted by FIGS. 17A-17B may be independentlydeployed, refracted, or deflected, based at least on the deflectingshield design techniques disclosed herein with reference to FIGS. 12-14and 16. Each shield panel 60 depicted by FIGS. 17A-17B is configured toretract for storage to the exemplary shield panel 60 stowed positiondepicted by dashed lines. The shield panel 60 may be extended to theexemplary deployed position depicted by solid lines in FIGS. 17A-17B. Inthe shield panel 60 deployed position depicted by FIGS. 17A-17B, eachshield panel 60 is configured in an open rectilinear position to liepartly on the golf cart roof top and extend beyond the golf cart roofside.

Each shield panel 60 depicted by FIGS. 17A-17B is configured to deflectin response to external force applied to the shield panel 60, based atleast on the deflecting shield design techniques disclosed herein withreference to FIGS. 12-14 and 16. For example, the shield panel 60 maydeflect in the direction of force applied to the shield panel 60, andautomatically return to an exemplary deployed position, based on thedesign techniques disclosed herein with reference to FIGS. 12-14 and 16.As depicted by FIG. 17B, the shield panel 60, in response to contact bya force, may deflect from the open rectilinear position to the retractedparallelogram position depicted by dashed lines, and automaticallyreturn to an exemplary deployed position when the contacting force isremoved.

In FIGS. 17A-17B, each main support bar 70 is vertically displaced fromthe golf cart roof by the spacing standoff 74. The spacing standoff 74may be configured with a swivel or bearing permitting the shield panel60 to rotate. The spacing standoff 74 may be any length useful tovertically displace the shield panel 60 from the golf cart roof, toassist drainage. Vertically displacing the main support bar 70 from thegolf cart roof angles the shield panel 60 from the main support bar 70downward toward each side of the golf cart roof. Angling the shieldpanel 60 from the main support bar 70 downward toward each side of thegolf cart roof may assist draining rain water to the drain groove 76.The drain groove 76 may be a channel configured in the shield panel 60edge to direct rain water from the shield panel 60. In FIGS. 17A-17B,each shield panel 60 includes the rib 61 and perimeter support rod 62designs described herein at least with reference to FIGS. 12-14 and 16.In FIG. 17B, each exemplary shield panel 60 is configured with the endcap 78. The end cap 78 may be a plug or seal configured in the draingroove 76 to prevent rain water draining from the drain groove 76 endwhere the end cap is installed. The end cap 78 may be configured with atapered shape wider at one end of end cap 78 than the other end, to easeuser installation or removal and help secure the end cap 78 in draingroove 76. The end cap 78 may be installed in either end, or both ends,of the drain groove 76. For example, a user desiring to encourage rainwater to drain away from equipment, such as golf clubs, stowed at thegolf cart rear may install end cap 78 at the drain groove 76 enddisposed at the golf cart rear, to prevent drainage from the rear. Auser desiring to encourage rain water to drain toward the golf cart rearmay install end cap 78 at the drain groove 76 end disposed at the golfcart front. In FIG. 17B, the exemplary drain groove 76 is configuredwith multiple drain hole 80 apertures. The drain hole 80 apertures mayincrease the shield panel 60 water draining efficiency based onincreasing the surface area configured to direct water away from thegolf cart roof. Some shield panel 60 implementations may omit the draingroove 76. Various drain groove 76 implementations may omit any drainhole 80 aperture.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been describedabove, it should be understood that they have been presented by way ofexample only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams maydepict an example architectural or other configuration for theinvention, which is provided to aid in understanding the features andfunctionality that can be included in the invention. The invention isnot restricted to the illustrated example architectures orconfigurations, but the desired features can be implemented using avariety of alternative architectures and configurations.

Indeed, it will be apparent to one of skill in the art how alternativefunctional configurations can be implemented to implement the desiredfeatures of the present invention. Additionally, with regard to flowdiagrams, operational descriptions and method claims, the order in whichthe steps are presented herein shall not mandate that variousembodiments be implemented to perform the recited functionality in thesame order unless the context dictates otherwise.

Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplaryembodiments and implementations, it should be understood that thevarious features, aspects and functionality described in one or more ofthe individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to theparticular embodiment with which they are described, but instead can beapplied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the otherembodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments aredescribed and whether or not such features are presented as being a partof a described embodiment. Thus, the breadth and scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplaryembodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: configuring a pair of panelssized to fit within the perimeter of a golf cart roof to be movable andangle downward toward the golf cart roof sides; configuring the movablepanels to be adjustable between a retracted parallelogram positioncomprising the panels disposed within the perimeter of the roof, and anopen rectilinear position wherein the panels extend beyond the roof; andconfiguring at least one panel to deflect from the open rectilinearposition to the retracted parallelogram position when the at least onepanel is contacted by a force.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein themovable panels further comprise at least one panel movable relative tothe roof surface.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the pair of panelsfurther comprises at least one rectangular panel.
 4. The method of claim1, wherein the pair of panels further comprises lightweight waterproofmaterial comprising plastic, high impact polyethylene, fiberglass, orcomposite material.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein configuring atleast one panel to deflect further comprises configuring each panel ofthe pair of panels to deflect.
 6. The method of claim 1, whereinconfiguring the movable panels to angle downward toward the golf cartroof sides further comprises configuring the panels to be verticallydisplaced from the golf cart roof when the panels are attached to a golfcart.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the method further comprisesconfiguring each panel of the pair of panels with a drain groove.
 8. Themethod of claim 7, wherein the method further comprises configuring thedrain groove with a drain hole.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein themethod further comprises configuring the drain groove with an end cap.10. An apparatus comprising: a pair of panels sized to fit within theperimeter of a golf cart roof, wherein the pair of panels are configuredto be movable and angle downward toward the golf cart roof sides;wherein the movable panels are configured to be adjustable between aretracted parallelogram position comprising the panels disposed withinthe perimeter of the roof, and an open rectilinear position comprisingthe panels extending beyond the roof; and at least one panel configuredto deflect from the open rectilinear position when the at least onepanel is contacted by a force.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, whereinthe movable panels further comprise at least one panel movable relativeto the roof surface.
 12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the movablepanels further comprise at least one panel movable relative to anotherpanel.
 13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the apparatus isdetachably attachable with a golf cart roof.
 14. The apparatus of claim10, wherein the apparatus further comprises the at least one panelconfigured to deflect in a direction depending on the force.
 15. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein the apparatus further comprises the atleast one panel configured to deflect is configured to automaticallyreturn from the position deflected to when the force is removed.
 16. Theapparatus of claim 10, wherein the apparatus further comprises a drainhole.
 17. An apparatus comprising: a pair of panels sized to fit withinthe perimeter of a golf cart roof, wherein the pair of panels areconfigured to be movable and vertically displaced from the golf cartroof to angle downward toward the golf cart roof sides when the panelsare attached to a golf cart; wherein the movable panels are configuredto be adjustable between a retracted parallelogram position comprisingthe panels disposed within the perimeter of the roof, and an openrectilinear position comprising the panels extending beyond the roof;and at least one panel configured to deflect from the open rectilinearposition to the retracted parallelogram position when the at least onepanel is contacted by a force, and automatically return from theposition deflected to when the force is removed; wherein the apparatusis configured to detachably attach with a golf cart roof.
 18. Theapparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus is attached to the roof ofa golf cart located at a golf course.
 19. The apparatus of claim 17,wherein the apparatus is attached to a golf cart.
 20. The apparatus ofclaim 17, wherein the apparatus is not attached to a golf cart.